[Behind-the-scenes scheming + no System + political intrigue + ensemble cast + decisive and ruthless + cunning]
During the Yongle reign of the Ming dynasty, the aftershocks of the Jingnan Campaign still ripple across the land. Wherever the Jinyiwei’s blades point, all “two capitals and thirteen provinces” tremble in fear.
At court, the “Three Yangs” assist in governing while the Crown Prince oversees state affairs. The Prince of Han and the Prince of Zhao are both waiting for their chance, while founding heroes and Jingnan veterans remain at odds. Amidst the clash of swords, countless wronged souls die with grievances unavenged.
Zhu Di took the throne by questionable means, yet he is determined to build a golden age surpassing even the Han and Tang dynasties. He moves the capital, compiles books, wages wars, sends fleets across the Western Ocean, and welcomes envoys from every nation… Beneath this prosperous age, bones pile high.
At Qixia Temple, the black-robed monk and chief adviser Yao Guangxiao holds a Buddhist scripture and asks, “Disciple, how long will the Ming dynasty endure?”
“There will never be a Ming dynasty forever, only a China that lasts forever!” Lin Hao replies with a calm smile.
The old monk shakes his head with a sigh, then suddenly says, “Hurry up and marry the eldest princess.”
Damn that old bald monk, Lin Hao curses inwardly, then protests indignantly, “Master, stop scheming against me all the time. Your disciple doesn’t want to be a prince consort.”
Yao Guangxiao remains perfectly calm, his shrewd, calculating eyes narrowing slightly. “The Zhu family cannot abide the slightest threat. Once I’m gone, the eldest princess will be your best chance to stay alive…”
Lin Hao shrugs and says leisurely, “The Age of Exploration is coming!”
